The Central Region is the country's gateway, but in itself offers a wide range of activities and attractions worth exploring. One of the main characteristics is its pleasant climate, since even San José, located 1,149 meters above sea level (3,734 Ft), enjoys an average temperature of 24° C (77° F). A gastronomic variety and high level lodgings characterize this region, and let's not forget the bed & breakfasts and the popular "sodas" or small local food restaurants. Five of the best museums in the country are in the capital: the Gold, Jade, National, Contemporary Art and Children's museums, in addition to the maximum architectural jewel of Costa Rica: The National Theatre, built in 1897 through a self-imposed coffee tax and reflecting European cultural influence.

Dance halls and discos where tropical rhythms vibrate, as well as fashionable pubs are part of the San José's night atmosphere. San José is also headquarters of the country's government and political life. Cultural activities, such as the theatre and contemporary dance, as well as academic activities are also an integral part of an area that boasts high standards in education and health.

In San José's surrounding areas, typical towns of great scenic beauty and rural landscapes offer, a glance of the former Costa Rica, with its tile roof houses, large solariums, domestic animals, "trapiches" and dairies, as well as ox carts, one of the leading rural symbols of Costa Rican. The fairs of the patron saints, as well as San José's "Festejos Populares" in December, are some of the traditional activities offered to the visitor. The great scenic beauty that is the central region of Costa Rica, a result of the Central Volcanic Mountain range that on addition to its attractive mountains, also includes impressive active volcanoes like the Poás and the Irazú. This region, due to its climate and altitude, is also the area that has the best conditions for coffee production, for which Costa Rica is famous. Other farming includes, vegetables, ferns, fruits and a great variety of ornamental plant nurseries. In some mountain sites, trout fishing is practiced and then served in succulent plates.